Maker: Des Horn (click to see more by this maker)Price: $1,550.00
Item num: 97917Blade length: 2.80 in.Cutting edge length: 2.75 in.Total length: 6.50 in.Blade height (at heel): 0.66 in.Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.10 in.Blade thickness (at midpoint): 0.10 in.Blade thickness (near tip): 0.05 in.Item weight: 2.40 oz.Shipment weight: 3 oz.Blade: Stainless damascus forged by Damasteel, hardened, sub-zero quenched, and double tempered by Des for excellent edge retentionBolster: Engraved zirconium with 24k gold inlayHandle: Presentation grade pink ivory wood scales set on fileworked, anodized titanium linersSheath: Ostrich leather pocket pouchStyle: Flipper style ball release folder (not automatic)Description: Des Horn makes knives that have an intrinsic harmony. The high-tech materials in this knife are juxtaposed against some of the best that nature can offer.
This ball release folder has handle scales formed from pink ivory wood (Berchemia zeyheri). Pink ivory is a dramatic wood from South Africa. Pink Ivory trees are said to be both rare and valuable, and have been rumored to be "rarer than diamonds." According to folklore, the tree is considered sacred to the Zulus in South Africa and is reserved for royalty. Pink ivory that is this red is particularly rare.
Bolsters are formed from zirconium. Zirconium is a transitional metal that is primarily mined in South Africa and Australia. It is highly resistant to corrosion and scuffing. The bolsters are meticulously engraved and inlaid with 24K gold. This was done by Belgium-born artist Julien Marchal. Julien studied engraving and gun making at Léon Mignon Liège in Belgium prior to emigrating to South Africa.
The blade is formed from ladder pattern damascus forged by Damasteel in Sweden. Des performs a particularly good heat treatment, resulting in optimal edge holding. The blade was hardened the cryogenically quenched in liquid nitrogen and double tempered. The indent and release balls are silicon nitride (Hrc 93!). Anodized grade V titanium liners surround the twist pattern stainless damascus back strap.
Des' craftsmanship means that this unusual locking mechanism works smoothly and comfortably. The front flipper opener is easy to use -- it is designed for easy single handed opening and closing rather than a modern 'flicking' flipper. The blade is perfectly centered and has smooth, consistent action.
Exceptional fit and finish throughout.Availability: In stock. Usually ships in 1-2 business days